Harmony: meaning, definitions and examples

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harmony

 

[ ˈhɑːrməni ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

music

Harmony is the combination of simultaneously sounded musical notes to produce chords and chord progressions having a pleasing effect.

Synonyms

accord, concord, melody.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
harmony

This is used to describe a pleasing combination of different parts working together peacefully. It is often used in music, relationships, or any situation where things come together smoothly.

  • The choir sang in perfect harmony.
  • They lived in harmony with nature.
  • There is a sense of harmony within the team.
concord

This is a formal term for a state of agreement or harmony between people, groups, or nations. It is often utilized in political or historical contexts.

  • The leaders aimed to bring about concord between the nations.
  • The family lived in concord despite their differences.
  • A sense of concord spread throughout the community after the reconciliation.
accord

This word signifies agreement or consistency between people or groups. It can be used in formal contexts like legal agreements or treaties, or simply to denote mutual understanding.

  • The two countries reached a peace accord.
  • He was in full accord with the committee's decision.
  • They signed an accord to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
melody

This is a musical term used to describe a sequence of notes that are perceived as a single entity, often recognizable and pleasing to the ear.

  • She hummed a beautiful melody.
  • The melody of the song is very catchy.
  • He composed a new melody for the symphony.

Examples of usage

  • The harmony in this piece of music is absolutely beautiful.
  • The choir sang in perfect harmony.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Harmony refers to a consistent, orderly, or pleasing arrangement of parts.

Synonyms

agreement, balance, unity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
harmony

Usually describes a situation where elements are working together in a pleasing and effective way, often used in music, relationships, nature, or design.

  • The choir sang in perfect harmony
  • The interior design of the room exudes harmony
balance

Refers to a situation where different elements are equal or in the correct proportions. Often used in physical contexts, but also in financial, emotional, or lifestyle-related discussions.

  • She maintained perfect balance on the tightrope
  • There's a fine balance between work and leisure
agreement

Often used when two or more parties have reached a consensus or come to a mutual decision, typically in legal, business, or personal contexts. It can also mean a simple understanding between people.

  • The two companies finally reached an agreement
  • There was mutual agreement on all points discussed
unity

Describes a state of being united or joined as a whole. Often used in social, political, or organizational contexts to describe solidarity and togetherness.

  • The team's unity was evident in their coordinated efforts
  • The speech was a call for national unity

Examples of usage

  • The garden was a perfect harmony of colors and scents.
  • They lived together in harmony with nature.

Translations

Translations of the word "harmony" in other languages:

🇵🇹 harmonia

🇮🇳 सामंजस्य

🇩🇪 Harmonie

🇮🇩 harmoni

🇺🇦 гармонія

🇵🇱 harmonia

🇯🇵 調和 (ちょうわ)

🇫🇷 harmonie

🇪🇸 armonía

🇹🇷 uyum

🇰🇷 조화

🇸🇦 تناغم

🇨🇿 harmonie

🇸🇰 harmónia

🇨🇳 和谐 (héxié)

🇸🇮 harmonija

🇮🇸 samhljómur

🇰🇿 үйлесім

🇬🇪 ჰარმონია

🇦🇿 harmoniya

🇲🇽 armonía

Etymology

The word 'harmony' originated from Middle English 'harmonie', from Old French 'harmonie', from Latin 'harmonia', from Greek 'harmonia' meaning 'joint, agreement, concord'. The concept of harmony has been essential in music, philosophy, and various aspects of life throughout history, symbolizing unity, balance, and beauty.

See also: harm, harmed, harmful, harmfully, harmfulness, harming, harmless, unharmed.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,196, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.